Montserrat stands apart from other Caribbean islands. Often called the "Emerald Isle of the Caribbean," it reflects both its lush green hills and deep Irish heritage. But what makes this island truly unique is its landscape—half covered in tropical forests, the other half shaped by the power of nature.

The Soufrière Hills Volcano, once quiet, erupted in the 1990s, covering the capital, Plymouth, in ash and rock. Today, the ruins remain untouched, a haunting yet fascinating reminder of the island’s past. Known as the "Pompeii of the Caribbean," this abandoned city offers a glimpse into a moment frozen in time.

Yet, Montserrat is a place of beauty and resilience. The northern side of the island remains a paradise of rolling green hills, black-sand beaches, and hidden coves. The locals, always welcoming, take pride in their traditions, with the island’s Irish roots coming to life each year during the lively St. Patrick’s Festival.

With few crowds and a relaxed way of life, Montserrat is perfect for travelers who want to experience nature, history, and local culture without the usual rush of tourists. Whether hiking to stunning viewpoints, taking a boat tour along the volcanic exclusion zone, or simply unwinding on a quiet beach, this island offers a one-of-a-kind Caribbean escape.

In this guide, we’ll explore the must-visit places, local flavors, and the best way to stay connected during your trip.

Must-See Attractions in Montserrat

Soufrière Hills Volcano & Plymouth: The Lost City

Montserrat’s most famous landmark is the still-active Soufrière Hills Volcano, which dramatically reshaped the island. Visitors can’t enter the exclusion zone, but boat tours offer an up-close look at Plymouth, the former capital buried under layers of ash and rock. Seeing abandoned buildings half-buried in volcanic debris is both eerie and fascinating—a reminder of nature’s power.

Montserrat Volcano Observatory: A Window Into the Earth

For a deeper understanding of the island’s volcanic history, visit the Montserrat Volcano Observatory (MVO). Scientists here monitor the Soufrière Hills Volcano, and visitors can watch real-time footage, see before-and-after images of Plymouth, and learn about the ongoing impact of eruptions.

Rendezvous Bay: The Island’s Only White-Sand Beach

Unlike most of Montserrat’s volcanic black-sand beaches, Rendezvous Bay has soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. Since it’s only accessible by boat or a short hike, the beach remains quiet and untouched. Snorkel in the turquoise water, relax under the sun, or enjoy a peaceful picnic with stunning coastal views.

Jack Boy Hill: A View of the Volcano’s Power

Located in the northeast, Jack Boy Hill is one of the best places to get a panoramic view of the volcano and the buried city of Plymouth. A small picnic area makes it a great spot to stop, take in the scenery, and reflect on the island’s resilience.

Runaway Ghaut: Drink from the Fountain of Legend

Montserrat’s Runaway Ghaut is a lush, rainforest-lined spring with a local legend—whoever drinks from its waters is destined to return to the island. Surrounded by ferns and towering trees, this peaceful spot is perfect for a short walk and a cool drink from nature’s own fountain.

Local Cuisine: What to Eat in Montserrat

Goat Water – The National Dish

This rich, spicy stew made with goat meat, herbs, and spices is a must-try. Despite its name, it’s not a soup—it’s a thick, flavorful dish often served with rice or bread.

Mountain Chicken – A Rare Delicacy

Once a popular dish, Montserrat’s “mountain chicken” is actually a type of giant frog found only in the Caribbean. Due to conservation efforts, it’s no longer widely available, but locals still talk about its unique flavor.

Saltfish & Johnny Cakes – A Classic Island Meal

Salted codfish, cooked with onions, peppers, and spices, is a staple in Montserrat. It’s best paired with Johnny Cakes, a slightly sweet fried bread perfect for soaking up sauces.

Ducana – A Sweet Island Treat

Ducana is a traditional dish made from grated sweet potatoes, coconut, and spices, wrapped in banana leaves and boiled to perfection. It has a slightly sweet, spiced flavor and is often enjoyed with saltfish for a balanced mix of sweet and savory.

Mountain Chicken – A Rare Local Delicacy

Despite its name, mountain chicken isn’t chicken at all—it’s a dish made from the giant ditch frog, once a staple in Montserratian cuisine. Due to conservation efforts, it is now a rare delicacy, but it remains an important part of the island’s culinary history.

Essential Travel Tips for Montserrat

Money & Payments

• The Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD) is the official currency, but US dollars are widely accepted.
• Credit cards work at larger hotels and restaurants, cash is needed for smaller shops and local markets.
• There are only a few ATMs on the island, so bring enough cash before exploring remote areas.

Getting Around

• Rental cars are available, but driving is on the left side of the road.
• Taxis are common, but they don’t use meters, so negotiate the fare before the ride.
• Montserrat has no public buses, but small minibuses run informal routes.

Staying Safe

• Montserrat is one of the safest Caribbean islands, with a low crime rate and a tight-knit community.
• The volcano is actively monitored, so always check for updates before heading to viewpoints near the exclusion zone.
• The sun is strong, so bring sunscreen, stay hydrated, and wear light clothing for hikes.

Staying Connected in Montserrat

Staying online in Montserrat is a must—whether you’re sharing breathtaking photos in real time, keeping in touch with friends, or navigating the island with ease. While public Wi-Fi is available in hotels, restaurants, and some public areas, it can be inconsistent, slow, and pose security risks.

For a more secure and stable mobile connection, purchasing a local SIM card is an option. You can get one from the island’s main provider, but a passport is required for registration. However, finding a store, waiting in line, and completing the registration process can be time-consuming.

With Montserrat JetSet eSIM, you can skip the hassle entirely. Activate your eSIM before you arrive and get instant connectivity—no need to visit a store, swap SIM cards, or deal with paperwork.

JetSet eSIM plans come with no roaming fees, so you stay connected without surprise charges. Need more data? Simply purchase another eSIM online in just a few clicks.

Stay connected effortlessly and enjoy exploring Montserrat with peace of mind!